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2011 Suzuki GSX-R600 Review (video)

The new engine inherits lighter, short-skirt pistons that encourage high revving, and the manufacturing of the internal components is similar to that of GP engines. More aggressive camshafts lift valves made of novel materials, while the cylinders have been coated in nickel and phosphorous for improved durability.

What's more, better ventilation of the crankcase reduces internal pressure and improves revving. Lastly, the engine proves more efficient across the entire rpm range and now offers two S-DMS mapping modes: "A" for full power and "B" for a more civilized experience, accompanied by less enthusiastic revving and earlier torque deployment.

The full contingent of ponies is unleashed a little later, which makes it easy to modulate acceleration on corner exit. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Moto123.com)

Potent and user-friendly
The full contingent of ponies is unleashed a little later, which makes it easy to modulate acceleration on corner exit while ensuring impressive performance on straightaways. The transmission with its exemplary shifting and new gear ratio keeps the engine in the optimal range, i.e. between 9,000 and 14,500 rpm, while the unidirectional clutch makes downshifting easier when braking hard and helps stabilize the hind end.

The engine feels torquey between 5,000 and 9,000 rpm, at which point the high-end grunt comes in, blasting you into the next corner. And though it's pointless to go beyond the 13,500 mark, where maximum power is achieved, the experience becomes utterly thrilling near the red line, set at 15,500 rpm. And even then, the power is never overwhelming. The throttle responds to the slightest input, boosting our confidence so we can give it our absolute best.

Successful diet
The new GSX-R's wheelbase is 1 mm shorter than that of its predecessor, its riding position has been improved with the track in mind and its weight has been reduced by 9 kg, making for a nimble, lively and precise machine on the technical portions of the St-Eustache track. It really shines in terms of handling, thanks to the near-perfect balance of two opposing factors, stability and agility. A balance made possible by the completely redesigned chassis, featuring a more compact frame, an engine position straightened by 3 degrees and lighter swingarm, exhaust, bodywork and wheels.

It really shines in terms of handling, thanks to the near-perfect balance of two opposing factors, stability and agility. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Moto123.com)